Related Links

Gift from Walton Will Build New Keth Golf Course Clubhouse

Contact: Rob McCutcheon WARRENSBURG, MO (May 6, 2010) - A major donation from Audrey J. Walton will fund the building of a new clubhouse at UCM’s Keth Memorial Golf Course.

The $1.5 million gift will provide the funding needed to finish the renovation of the course that began in 2008. When complete, the clubhouse will be approximately 4,500 square feet and feature a banquet room, professional kitchen facilities, a pro shop, and three offices.

“I made this contribution because of my great interest in golf and my long time friendship with (Athletic Director) Jerry Hughes,” Walton said. “I have great feelings for UCM and confidence in the leadership and direction the current Board of Governors has taken, with the hiring of Dr. Chuck Ambrose as the new university president. It is my hope that this clubhouse will continue to improve the entire Keth Memorial Golf Course experience.”

Walton is one of the largest individual cash donors in UCM history as the football stadium also bears her name. From Versailles, MO, Walton has a relationship with UCM dating back to 1986. She is a yearly giver, including major items donated to the annual UCM Athletic Auction.

“Once again, Mrs. Walton has demonstrated her commitment to giving as this will help greatly enhance our campus and Keth Memorial Golf Course,” Hughes said. “Her generosity continues to help so many individuals, as well as the University.”

Keth Memorial Golf Course, which opened in 1964, is the centerpiece of the once-famous Pertle Springs resort. It was renamed in 1972 for the late Earl Keth, who was the first All-American in Mules basketball history. He was also the head basketball coach at UCM from 1946-61.

The latest renovations, which started in 2008, include a new driving range with four indoor bays, as well as new putting greens and a chipping area.

The course is the home of the Mules golf team and also host to the annual Mule Run for the men’s and women’s cross country teams. The course has also benefitted several programs in fundraising. Mules golf and football teams, as well as Jennies athletics and several academic scholarships have been helped by fundraising tournaments held at the facility.

“On behalf of the Board of Governors, I would like to thank Mrs. Walton for her generosity,” UCM Board President Richard Phillips said. “This gift will benefit the faculty, staff, students and alums of our university.” The new clubhouse will provide a venue to host events such as club meetings, family reunions, weddings and fundraising events. The formal bid and construction process on the project will begin in the very near future.